Vienna, 19 October 2010 – “Cultural exchange builds confidence and increases understanding at all levels. The further development of relations between Austria and Macedonia – including those at the political and inter-personal levels – are of special concern. In concluding this new cultural agreement we want to intensify our close and friendly relationship, particularly in such areas as science, education, and culture,” stated Foreign Minister Michael Spindelegger, who, together with Macedonia’s Minister of Culture, Elizabeta Kanceska-Milevska, today signed the cultural accord in Vienna.

“The new agreement creates a formal basis for cultural co-operation between Austria and Macedonia. For the first time it offers us the opportunity to jointly realise projects at secondary and tertiary levels of education, as well as in such fields as art and culture, youth and sport. Visa liberalisation, which was realised in December 2009, is another sign of a Europe that is ever more closely growing together,” continued Spindelegger.